Checklist for a Gala Fund-raiser

Successful galas are enjoyable for the guests and profitable for the cause.

Gala fund-raisers can be very rewarding after you can see the outcome, but they can also be a lot of work to plan. Gala fund-raiser events are upscale or formal parties meant to provide enjoyment to guests while benefiting a cause. When planning a gala fund-raiser, remember to make the event elegant, but simple. Keep with the fund-raiser theme when planning the event so that guests are clear about the purpose of the fund-raiser.

Invitations

Decide how formal the event will be and create invitations. Include an RSVP section and make sure to include whether guests are welcome. Generally, fund-raising events are more successful when more people show up. However, if you are planning an event limited to employees within a company, make sure to create a closed event. Within the invitation, state the purpose of the fund-raiser and the method in which donations will be accepted.

Donations

Attendees either offer donations at gala fund-raisers or receive rewards for their generosity. Sometimes galas offer date auctions in which event planners auction off volunteers who agree to go on dates to raise money. Other galas have auctions in which the highest bidder wins gift cards or other items. The profits from the sold items go toward the fund-raising purpose.

Entertainment

Fund-raisers often have entertainment for guests. This feature is important as the guests are exercising generosity by attending the event and donating money to the cause. Show your appreciation for the guests by including a band or DJ. Music is a great way to encourage people to spend more time at the event to socialize or just relax and enjoy the music. If possible, arrange a dance floor to motivate guests to involve themselves in the festivities.

Refreshments

Galas should always have refreshments such as punch, wine, or beer. Decide if you would like to have an open bar, or charge for the drinks and donate the money to the cause. Usually galas include appetizers or even a dinner. If you include a dinner, require an RSVP and charge for the dinner. Contribute the money made from the dinner to the cause as well as donations.

The Work

Hire or ask a crew or group to prep the decorations and food and provide clean-up. If you are hosting the gala, it will be next to impossible for you to control all of the aspects during the event. Either create a gala fund ahead of time to pay for the event, or use donations for the event to pay for the cost. Bring down costs by using a banquet room in your office building. If this is not possible, rent one from a local hotel for several hours.

References

• Gala Inc.: Services, Planning And Production